Our naturalist is available to answer wildlife nuisance questions about deer, raccoons, skunks, bats, groundhogs, and snakes, as well as other outdoor-related questions. Literature is available regarding deer-proofing your yard, including planting suggestions and techniques to prevent deer from eating your landscape plants. Please visit our Deer Management Advisory Committee page for more information.

Please keep in mind that no pets are allowed at any of our Outdoor Engagement Programs.

Special Interest/Scout Group Programming
To set up programs, hikes, etc. specific for Special Interest or Scout Groups please contact our Natural Resources division directly at 248.656.4775 or by emailing For security reasons, you must enable JavaScript to view this E-mail address..
Making Maple SyrupA Backyard
Guide for BeginnersSkill
Level: IntroductoryAge:
Adult/Children 12 and up, children under 14 must be accompanied by a paying adult.Cost: $12/person REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSEDWhen:
Saturday Feb 23rd, 1-2:30pm
Where: Bloomer Park
Travel through various stations in Bloomer Park with Lance and Lauren to learn
the first steps to make your own Maple Syrup. From identifying various species
of maple tree, to the tree tapping process and sap boiling setup. You'll leave
with all the knowledge you need to make your own syrup and the Spile, Tubing,
and Bucket to tap your own Maple Tree. This program is held rain or shine so
come dressed for the weather and a walk through the woods.
Sap-To-Syrup
Pancake BreakfastAge: All
ages, children under 14 must be accompanied by a paying adult.Cost: $7/person - Kids age 4 and under are free!When:
Saturday March 16th, 9am-12pm
Where: Rochester Hills Museum at
Van Hoosen Farm
Visit the Museum at Van Hoosen Farm to see an old-fashioned sap-to-syrup
boiling operation. We will be making syrup from trees tapped right here in
Rochester Hills. Sample some real maple syrup and enjoy a pancake breakfast
complete with sausage, juice and coffee.

Tickets

Time Slot

Antler
AmbleSkill
Level: IntroductoryAge:
Adult/Children 7 and up, children under 14 must be accompanied by a paying adult.Cost: $5/personWhen:
Friday April 5th, 1-2:30pm
Where: Bloomer Park
Each winter,
white-tailed deer shed their antlers only to grow new ones in the spring. Learn
about this amazing cycle then search the trails and wooded areas in Bloomer
Park for dropped antlers. Dress for the weather and walking in the woods, rain
or shine! You can take home any antlers you may find.